Weekly Digest – 23 March 2022
Welcome back to our Weekly Digest. Read on for the latest updates and some ideas to help us all move forward.
Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test Result No Longer Required
Starting April 1, fully-vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entry into Canada. Random testing at the Canadian border will continue, but those tested will not need to quarantine while awaiting their results.
Ontario Lifts Mask Mandates
Ontario has lifted its masking requirements in most indoor settings, including stores, schools, and gyms. This comes a few weeks after the province lifted proof-of-vaccination rules and capacity limits.
Foreign Credential Recognition Program
The government announced funding for nine projects under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program to help skilled newcomers gain work experience in the healthcare sector.
Government Invests to Promote Sustainability in Organics Industry
An investment of up to $103,400 for the Organic Federation of Canada was announced to enable a new collaboration that will promote sustainability and growth for the organics industry. The project brings together the Organic Federation of Canada, Canadian Organic Growers, and the Canada Organic Trade Association.
New Phase of Local Food Infrastructure Fund
A new phase of Local Food Infrastructure Fund, with an investment of up to $20 million, was launched. This funding will support community-based and not-for-profit organizations in their efforts to create long-term solutions to address food security challenges.
Pandemic Support for Commercial Tenants
Businesses, non-profit organisations, and charities who have seen a drop in revenue during the pandemic may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of their commercial rent or property expenses through one of the following:
Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program (THRP) – Rent (Effective: Until 7 May 2022)
Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program (HHBRP) – Rent (Effective: Until 7 May 2022)
You can learn more about these subsidies here.
COVID-Business Aid Loan Repayment Extended to 2023
Originally, if claimants repaid the balance of their Canada Emergency Business Account loan on or before the end of 2022, the government planned to forgive up to one-third of their loan. Now, eligible businesses “in good standing,” will have until 31 December 2023 to repay and be eligible for up to $20,000 of debt forgiveness.
Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit Open for Applications
The federal government announced that the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit is open for applications. It gives temporary income support of $300 a week to employed and self-employed people who can’t work due to a COVID-19 lockdown. Payments will be retroactive to 19 December.
COVID-19 Recovery Programs
The government is taking immediate action to support Canadians and businesses facing hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You will find support for individuals, businesses, sectors, communities, and other measures here.
Ontario Extends Paid Sick Leave Program Into 2022
Labour Minister Monte McNaughton is extending the pandemic paid sick leave to 31 July. Originally, the provincial program was supposed to wrap up on 31 December. However, with the more contagious Omicron variant, the Labour Minister announced that it would continue.
HASCAP Loan Applications
Loan applications from the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) is available until 31 March 2022. Loans start at between $25,000 and $1 million for a single business depending on the size of the operation, and run up to $6.25 million for companies with multiple locations like a chain of hotels or restaurants. Further details can be found here.
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Contact us if you have any questions or want to discuss the next steps for your business.